Rafael Nadal, one of tennis’ greatest legends, has officially retired after a glittering 23-year career. The 22-time Grand Slam champion bid farewell to the sport in Malaga on Tuesday night, following Spain’s Davis Cup quarter-final defeat to the Netherlands.

The 38-year-old, who retires as the second-most successful men’s singles player of all time behind Novak Djokovic, expressed his gratitude for the journey he has had. “I’d like to be remembered as a kid that achieved more than I ever dreamed,” Nadal said during an on-court presentation. “I was just a kid that followed their dreams, worked as hard as possible to be where I am today.”

Known as the ‘King of Clay’, Nadal captured an unprecedented 14 French Open titles and amassed 91 ATP titles during his career. Reflecting on his legacy, Nadal said: “I leave with the peace of mind that I have left a legacy, which I really feel is not just a sporting one but a personal one.”

In what proved to be his final match, Nadal lost to Botic Van de Zandschulp, ending an extraordinary 29-match winning streak in Davis Cup singles matches that spanned two decades. Speaking after the match, Nadal said: “In some ways it is good, maybe, if that was my last match. I lost my first match in the Davis Cup and I lost my last one. We close the circle.”

Tributes poured in from across the tennis world. Carlos Alcaraz, who idolised Nadal, said: “He has been great for tennis, for the sport in general… His legacy is going to be eternal.” Spain’s captain, David Ferrer, told Nadal: “You will be remembered eternally.”

Long-time rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic also paid their respects. Federer, in an Instagram post, praised Nadal for making “the whole tennis world proud” during his “epic career.” Djokovic shared a video message, saying: “I have been very honoured and thrilled to be called your rival.” Andy Murray and Serena Williams joined the tributes, with Williams writing: “Your legacy will never die.”

Nadal’s career spanned the celebrated ‘Big Three’ era, alongside Federer and Djokovic, with the trio elevating tennis to unprecedented heights. As Nadal steps away from professional competition, he leaves behind a legacy defined not only by his athletic achievements but also by his humility, determination, and sportsmanship.

“I have been very lucky in the life I have had the opportunity to live,” Nadal said. “The way I’d like to be remembered most is as a good person from a small village in Mallorca.”

Rafael Nadal’s legacy will indeed endure, as a player who followed his dreams and inspired countless others along the way.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has applauded the outstanding performance of the athletes who represented the State at the 8th National Youth Games in Asaba for making Lagos proud by maintaining the second position surpassing previous records.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, at the reception held at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja, to celebrate the youngsters, commended the courage, resilience, and discipline demonstrated by exceptional student-athletes across various sports.

“You are truly our pride, and we hold you in the highest regard. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way to reach your full potential. Your commitment to their growth and excellence reflects the spirit of Lagos, and with your continued support, we will reach even greater heights in sports and education. Congratulations once again to Team Lagos and to all the families who make these achievements possible”

He emphasized that his administration’s THEMES+ agenda aligns with commitment to integrating sports and education, which has led to the full participation of students from both public and private secondary schools across the state’s 6 Education Districts and 20 Local Government Education Authorities.

“As we celebrate these achievements, let us remember that the journey of sports development and excellence is a continuous one. These young athletes embody the spirit of Lagos – resilient, bold, and always striving for greatness. Our commitment to nurturing their potential remains unwavering, and together, we will build a brighter future where sports and education thrive side by side, shaping the champions of tomorrow. ”

Governor Sanwo-Olu awarded gold medalists N200,000 each, silver medalist N150,000 each, and bronze Medalist N100,000. He also awarded all athletes N50,000 each, and the coaches were not left out as they were awarded the sum N100, 000 each.

Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende appreciated the efforts of the Lagos State Sports Commission, sponsors, parents of Athletes and the athletes at large.

Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu stated that the unique development is tied to the athletes’ different academic disciplines as different entities with the state will continue to support and play it’s role.

“We are changing the narrative around sports development. We will continue to watch the development and continue to support them to greater heights, he said.

Represtative of the parents, Mr. Godwin Egbebe, on behalf of the parents, expressed gratitude to Lagos State Government and Lagos State Sports Commission for founding their wards worthy of representing the state.

Representative of the athletes, Beauty Oyero -a nine year old golfer who won silver medal at the 2024 NYG also appreciated the State Government and Sports Commission, promising that the athletes will represent and bring glory to the state in more competitions.

By Akeem Busari

It was another victorious outing for Nigeria on the continental stage as the national U16 female basketball 3v3 team, claimed gold medal in Dakar, Senegal at the DAKAR EN JAUX 2024 Festival.

The Nigerian girls who had earlier claimed a silver medal in Accra, Ghana during the All Africa Games, defeated host country, Senegal 11-8 in the final to become champions.Speaking after the final game, Nigeria’s head of delegation and team coordinator, Victor Okoro, praised the girls for putting up spectacular displays throughout the games.

“I’m very proud of this team. I am also happy that once again, they have made Nigeria proud on the international stage,” he remarked.Okoro, a board member of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, noted that the recent feats of the team is a further testament to the untiring efforts of the NBBF, led by Engr. Musa Kida to continually develop the game in at levels, for the benefits of Nigeria.